Traveling after an organ transplant is not a reason to stop, but you will need to take extra precautions and plan ahead in order to maintain your health and safety. Travel is a necessity for many, whether they are on the waiting list or have had a transplant.
Check out these tips to ensure a smooth trip, whether you’re traveling by car, plane or train.
1. It’s important to carry your medication with you!
The health of your organ transplant is dependent on the medications you take. This item should be at the top.
- Always pack your medication in your carry-on when flying. This will ensure that you won’t miss any doses if your flight is delayed or your bag gets lost, as this happens all too often. Keep your medications in their original containers when flying to avoid any TSA questions.
- Bring more than you need. You’ll be prepared if something happens. You should also make sure that you have enough refills for your prescriptions, in case you need one while on vacation.
- It may seem simple, but time changes are often overlooked. It’s crucial to set up medication reminders for transplant patients, as they take their medications every day at the same time. As one transplant patient shared, “Most my transplant travel plans revolve about medications when will I take them and will time zone changes at my destination affect this? Do I plan to take them on the road, and do I have snacks and water with me? Can I order my prescriptions in advance to have them on hand in case there is a delay?
- Pack any extra medical equipment or items that will keep you comfortable. Some may need a blood-pressure cuff, while others may want to replicate the comforts of their home with items like a gel pack or heating pad.
2. Keep it clean
You will find that the surfaces of the airport and the plane are often touched by people coming and going. This means there are germs. You should always have sanitizing wipes handy to wipe down surfaces such as the plane tray table, seatbelt buckles and door handles.
Hand sanitizer is a great way to protect yourself, especially if you are in an emergency and don’t have soap or water.
Don’t forget to wear your mask. Just because they’re no longer required in most places doesn’t mean they aren’t a good idea and added level of protection especially for transplant recipients who are immunocompromised.
3. Safety in the sun
You’ll likely find sun wherever you go. Bring your UVF-protected sunblock, sunglasses, hats, cover-ups, water bottles, and always seek shade while outdoors. Don’t forget sunblock when sitting next to windows in the car or on a plane. The windshields and windows of airplanes don’t provide UV protection.
4. In case of emergency
Preparing for an emergency can help reduce risk. While we all hope to have a smooth trip, it is important to be prepared in case of an emergency. Here are some tips to help you in an emergency situation.
- You should keep a list of all the contacts you may need in an emergency, such as your transplant team, pharmacy numbers etc.
- If you are unsure if they will be needed, make sure to check out the nearby hospitals and healthcare providers.
- Tell your transplant team/doctors that you will be traveling. Consider whether you will be traveling to places where certain diseases or infections are more prevalent (ex. malaria). It is best to talk to your doctor about these concerns before you travel.
“Make certain you know where you can go if you get sick,” shared one transplant recipient. Before traveling abroad, visit the travel clinic and take care with what you eat.
